December 9, 2015
Where you live makes all the difference in your perspective concerning the seasons. I've lived in areas where you prepare for and hunker down for harsh winter. I now live in a predominately "snow bird" community, where folks come to enjoy the winter.
"Make every effort to come to me soon ... Make every effort to come before winter" (2 Timothy 4.9, 21)
The apostle Paul, near the end of his life, urgently desires a visit from his child in the faith, Timothy, before harsh winter sets in. His coworkers and companions, except for one, have all departed for various reasons (2 Timothy 4.10-12). The chilly night air, prelude to the cold of coming winter, prompts Paul to ask Timothy to bring his cloak, and, "the books, especially the parchments." (2 Timothy 4.13)
A lonely servant of God, facing death, desertion, cold, and isolation, reached out for encouragement and help. Fact is, no matter how strong or mature we are in the faith, there are "winters" when we have similar needs. None are immune to loneliness, discomfort, and discouragement. We need true companionship, mental and spiritual stimulation, and basic creature comforts. And, like Paul, we do well to face this reality, and seek out the help we need.
If this day is a time of struggle, reach out to those who can best help, and for that which will truly help. And, keep your hope in view to bolster confidence. "The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen." (2 Timothy 4.18)
Amen indeed.
Steve
"Make every effort to come to me soon ... Make every effort to come before winter" (2 Timothy 4.9, 21)
The apostle Paul, near the end of his life, urgently desires a visit from his child in the faith, Timothy, before harsh winter sets in. His coworkers and companions, except for one, have all departed for various reasons (2 Timothy 4.10-12). The chilly night air, prelude to the cold of coming winter, prompts Paul to ask Timothy to bring his cloak, and, "the books, especially the parchments." (2 Timothy 4.13)
A lonely servant of God, facing death, desertion, cold, and isolation, reached out for encouragement and help. Fact is, no matter how strong or mature we are in the faith, there are "winters" when we have similar needs. None are immune to loneliness, discomfort, and discouragement. We need true companionship, mental and spiritual stimulation, and basic creature comforts. And, like Paul, we do well to face this reality, and seek out the help we need.
If this day is a time of struggle, reach out to those who can best help, and for that which will truly help. And, keep your hope in view to bolster confidence. "The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen." (2 Timothy 4.18)
Amen indeed.
Steve
©Steve Taylor, 2015
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/
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posted by steve @ 7:51 AM
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